Aquatic Invasive Species

Watercraft inspections are the primary way to prevent new introductions of aquatic invasive species to Lake Tahoe.

How Tahoe Measures Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic invasive species degrade the biological integrity of aquatic ecosystems and impact nearshore clarity by altering the chemical, physical and biological habitat features of waterbodies, outcompeting native species, and increasing algae growth. Aquatic invasive species can also degrade recreational assets and reduce property values which would have significant impacts on the local economy and community.

What is Tahoe Doing to Combat Aquatic Invasive Species

 

Acres Treated for Invasive Species

Inventories for the location and extent of invasive species are critical for managing and controlling the spread of those species. Inventories enable strategic investment of resources by allowing managers to prioritize control and eradication efforts to the highest risk areas. Inventorying invasive species also provides the opportunity to detect new locations of infestation before they become large and costly to control, reducing the cost and effort required to control invasives.

This indicator measures the number of sites infested with Eurasian Water Milfoil and Curly Leaf Pondweed in Lake Tahoe.

By: Invasive Species Type

Environmental Improvement Program

Watercraft Inspections for Invasive Species

Watercraft inspection is the primary way to prevent new introductions of aquatic invasive species.

This indicator measures the total annual number of pre-launch watercraft inspections completed to search for aquatic invasive species and prevent their introduction into Lake Tahoe and other basin waterways. Inspections are done at dedicated watercraft inspection sites as well as each boat launch throughout the basin on all watercraft before access is allowed to Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Lake and Echo Lake.

By:

Environmental Improvement Program

Learn More/Get Involved

Everyone has a role to play in protecting the Lake Tahoe Region. Watercraft are the largest source for spreading aquatic invasive species (AIS) into new waterways and mandatory inspections will stop aquatic invasive species, such as quagga mussels, before they enter the water. For more information, visit tahoeboatinspections.com/welcome-to-tahoe-boat-inspections. For non-motorized watercraft, visit tahoekeepers.org.